You’re well into your search campaign. You’ve been worried you will never get a job offer. Now you’ve passed the phone screening test and they’ve called you for an interview.
You’re anxious get that job and inclined to take it if they make you an offer. But I suggest you take a deep breath and find out whether it’s a good fit.
The one-on-one interview will give you excellent advice on whether to accept an offer if one is made. The decision-maker will be asking you questions to determine your qualifications, your interest in the position, your personality, and your decision-making ability. He or she may be joined by other staff who would be impacted by your performance. However make sure to identify who will be your direct report and give him or her your utmost attention.
But an interview is not a one-way street; you owe it to yourself to ask your own questions. Asking these questions will give you vital information on whether this job will be a good fit. Here are some you should consider:
- What are the goals for the company in the next 3 – years?
- I’ve read the job description, but can you describe the specific tasks and responsibilities of the position?
- What are your expectations of the successful candidate?
- How often do you evaluate your staff performance?
- Why did the previous staff member leave? Has there been high turnover in the position?
- To the decision-maker/direct report: What is your management style?
The answers should give you a realistic picture of the company culture, a feel for the demands of the job, and the personality and workstyle of your direct report.
With these facts in hand, step back and dispassionately assess how well the job, your boss, and organization’s culture fit your needs. However, if your search campaign has not brought you a lot of offers, you may want to jump at the opportunity. This is a normal response. You may be burned out with your present company. You may need more money.
It’s ok to accept an offer. Just be sure you have a clear idea of how you can successfully work within the organization’s environment.